[Home Movies: Ivan Besse Collection: Britton, South Dakota 1938-39] (silent, Reel 2)

**[Home Movies: Ivan Besse Collection: Britton, South Dakota 1938-39] (Reel 2)** captures a charming, slice-of-life look at small-town America through the lens of Ivan Besse. This reel begins amidst a fierce snowstorm, highlighting the challenges of the era’s winters, including teams of men shoveling snow and managing icy roads. Street scenes dominate, showcasing townsfolk engaged in daily activities like eating bananas, visiting malt shops, and casually strolling past the camera—some amused, others shyly avoiding its gaze.

The reel offers multiple community highlights, such as corn husking contests with cash prizes, parades (seemingly a frequent event), and scenes outside a school with children bustling to and fro. The footage also captures athletic activities with the Britton Braves, showcasing their makeshift sports setups and spirited but often humorous attempts at high jumps and track races. These moments underline the resourceful yet humble conditions of the time.

Other memorable moments include glimpses of local bands performing, social events like marble matches, and charming interactions with children and seniors on the streets. Besse’s eye for candid, often amusing details—such as parade mishaps, goat-induced delays, and tall townsfolk—creates a vivid and endearing portrait of 1930s Midwestern life.

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